Encouraging a positive environment for business is a key role for Buckinghamshire Economic and Learning Partnership (BELP). We work closely with SEEDA (South East England Development Agency), to ensure that regional policies and plans are supporting the business community, for example in the provision of infrastructure.

In addition, we work very actively at the local level in the County, in a variety of contexts:

Planning
BELP is actively consulted by all the Local Authorities in Buckinghamshire in the preparation of their local planning policies and plans. 

Transport
BELP works closely with Buckinghamshire County Council, as the transport authority for the area, and we are consulted on all aspects of transport provision through the preparation of the Local Transport Plan. We also have close links with Chiltern Railways, the key provider of rail services in the County.

Promoting Skills
BELP is a member of the Local Skills for Productivity Alliance, which seeks to make the provision of local skills training more relevant for the needs of employers. We have good links with local universities and colleges, including Bucks New University, Buckingham University, Aylesbury College and Amersham & Wycombe College, and of course private training providers within the County.

We expect to be a partner in the newly emerging Employment and Skills Boards, which will eventually replace the Local Skills for Productivity Alliance.